Seasonal variation in the dimension of scent-marking gland of three desert rodents and its possible relationship with their reproductive performance

Abstract

The two gerbils,Tatera indica andMeriones hurrianae, and the metad,Rattus meltada pallidior exhibit significant monthly variations in the dimension (maximum length X maximum breadth) of the ventral scent marking gland. Peaks in gland size occur late in winter and monsoon which generally correspond to the maximum breeding activity of these rodents during the year. However, the monthly averages of gland area and incidence of pregnancy in the three species do not follow the same trend. It is difficult, therefore, to conclude if the scent-marking behaviour and the breeding performance of the rodents are inter-related.